Louisiana House Bill HB267

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/12/12
• Refer: 3/12/12

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Provides with respect to the appropriation of certain money in accordance with law and procedure

Impact

If approved, this amendment would require a more structured process for appropriating nonrecurring funds, potentially preventing arbitrary allocation and ensuring compliance with legal standards. This could lead to increased transparency in how state funds are managed and utilized, particularly by outlining a clear framework for decision-making. Additionally, the requirement for voter approval adds a layer of democratic engagement in the financial governance of the state, as these modifications would directly affect how public money is managed.

Summary

House Bill 267 is a constitutional amendment proposed by Representative Jim Morris aimed at defining the appropriation of nonrecurring money in accordance with established laws and procedures. The bill seeks to modify Article VII, Section 10(D)(2) of the Louisiana Constitution, which currently limits the allocation of nonrecurring funds to specific purposes, including debt retirement, funding for capital projects, and contributions to state funds like the Budget Stabilization Fund. The key change proposed by HB267 is to ensure these appropriations are made strictly according to law, enhancing clarity and possibly accountability in the financial processes of the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB267 appears to be cautious, as discussions tend to focus on the balance between necessary financial control and maintaining the flexibility that state officials need to address unforeseen financial circumstances. Proponents laud the bill as a means to enhance lawfulness and order in public finance, while critics express concern that such amendments could limit the state's ability to react quickly in times of financial crisis, stressing the importance of flexibility in budgetary decisions.

Contention

The notable contention regarding HB267 centers around the implications of restricting the use of nonrecurring funds. Supporters argue that clearer guidelines for appropriating these funds will prevent misuses and ensure that financial resources are directed towards critical areas of need. However, opponents caution that over-regulating fund allocation could hinder the state's agility in addressing urgent financial needs, particularly in emergencies or unanticipated situations, thereby depicting a fundamental debate between structured governance versus flexible financial management.